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What would you do if you could impact someone's life by simply speaking up? Join us for a heartfelt exploration of resilience and advocacy as I share my personal journey through multiple surgeries on my amputated arm, with unwavering support from my husband, Michael. We emphasize the critical importance of addressing domestic abuse, encouraging action and awareness to help those in need. Together, we reflect on the strength it takes to overcome personal challenges while appreciating the love and support of family, even in the face of adversity.

Our conversation doesn't shy away from difficult topics, like the rare and tragic school shooting involving a young female perpetrator, which prompts reflection on unexpected family dynamics. Yet, there's room for lighter moments, like sharing Christmas wishes and a nod to our daughter, Hazel Fate Curie Solomon, who has already published five books at just 18. Our family's humorous exchanges, from joking about writing careers to dieting escapades, bring warmth to the episode. Tune in to celebrate achievements and embrace the complexities of family life with us.

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TRIGGER WARNING Can a brush with authority leave lasting impressions on our perceptions? Join us as we kick off with an update on Victoria's impressive recovery from surgery, showcasing her strength and humor amidst the post-surgery hurdles. Our conversation flows into a deep dive into the influence of narcissistic family dynamics on how we view authority figures, shaped by personal interactions with law enforcement and military roles. We reflect on the importance of acknowledging individual actions and experiences rather than generalizing entire groups, emphasizing the nuanced perspectives upbringing can impart.

Unpack the systemic challenges within military and law enforcement communities, particularly around domestic violence. With a personal recount, we challenge the oversimplified narratives about why victims remain in abusive relationships and highlight the calculated planning required for a safe escape. Self-expression and healing take center stage as we share experiences of reclaiming emotional freedom, self-love, and the journey through narcissistic family trauma. Indulgence in small pleasures becomes a revolutionary act of self-care, underscoring the importance of mental and emotional well-being.

Family dynamics and the legacies we choose to build are touched upon with heartfelt anecdotes about feeling overlooked and the role of grandparents. We explore the bittersweet reality of complex familial relationships, contrasting cherished moments with more challenging interactions. Wrapping up with a playful exchange on iconic TV characters and imagining our lives on the big screen, our unique chemistry brings a light-hearted end to a deeply resonant episode. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of resilience, authenticity, and the pursuit of healing.

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Ever experienced the chaos of a last-minute surgery mix-up and the unexpected presence of a plastic surgeon? That's exactly what happened to us, Victoria and Michael, as we embarked on a whirlwind hospital adventure. From the frantic journey to the operating room to sharing light-hearted moments with a nurse who recognized us, this episode is a rollercoaster of emotions. Victoria, in her 18th surgery, remains a beacon of resilience, humorously refusing pain meds despite the complex nerve and muscle procedure on her arm.

Navigating the post-surgery landscape turned out to be as unpredictable as the surgery itself. We recount the trials of recovering without proper guidance, facing an allergic reaction to surgical tape, and managing the painstaking wound care at home. Through it all, the unwavering support from our family, especially our daughter Faith, becomes a powerful reminder of the strength and laughter that bind us together. Sharing these moments, we underscore the significance of empathy and effective communication in healthcare, highlighting needs that are as important as the medical procedures themselves.

As we wrap up, we share the behind-the-scenes challenges of improving our podcast, including our quest for better audio quality with upgraded microphones. It's all part of our commitment to delivering a better experience for our listeners, while balancing the humor and heart that define our show. We invite you to join our journey, engage with us on social media, and even participate as a guest. With playful banter and heartfelt exchanges, we offer a genuine glimpse into our lives, showing how humor and love can heal even the deepest scars.

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Trigger Warning. Picture this: it's the holiday season, but instead of joy, you're bracing yourself for another round of toxic family gatherings. Do you stand your ground and prioritize your mental health? Today, we share stories of those who courageously chose self-respect over harmful traditions, setting boundaries with family members who drained their energy. These empowering narratives remind us that family isn't just about blood relations, but about meaningful choices. We shine a light on the bravery it takes to reclaim one's voice and the profound personal growth that follows.

Our episode peels back the layers of complex family dynamics and the emotional toll of feeling unappreciated. We explore how generational trauma often manifests in families, where personal pain is dismissed or trivialized, and how narcissistic systems perpetuate cycles of blame. Through candid discussions about mental health, including the distinctions between circumstantial and clinical depression, we address the importance of honoring individual struggles without comparison. Personal stories bring clarity on how controlling relationships can be challenged, offering hope to those who feel overshadowed by narcissistic family members.

Lastly, we delve into the transformative power of chosen family and community support. There's an undeniable strength in surrounding oneself with those who uplift and understand, especially when facing the heartache of being the family 'black sheep.' We discuss the relief found in unveiling personal truths and standing firm against external pressures. This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, emphasizing the importance of finding solidarity and empowerment through supportive relationships, proving that you're never alone on this journey of healing and self-discovery.

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Can political figures truly be forgiven for their actions, or should they face perpetual scrutiny? Our latest episode takes you on an emotional rollercoaster as we explore the nuances of forgiveness in the realms of family and politics. We dive headfirst into the controversy surrounding Hunter Biden's pardon and wrestle with the complexities of forgiving loved ones for grave misdeeds. As we navigate these turbulent waters, we also discuss the challenges of letting go in the face of disturbing news stories. But fear not—after the storm, we find solace in the simple joys of a drama-free Thanksgiving and the satisfaction of decluttering our homes.

Ever wondered who has it tougher when it comes to medical issues—men or women? Our family takes a light-hearted approach to this age-old debate, weaving in biblical references and playful jabs at gender roles. With our daughter Faith joining the fun, we share laughs and insights about the unique challenges each gender faces, from childbirth to societal expectations. Through all the teasing and banter, we find an underlying appreciation for the diverse perspectives that make family life truly enriching.

Join us as we wrap up with some good-natured family banter that will leave you smiling. We engage in amusing debates about which Disney dwarf best represents each of us, and muse over the difficulties of choosing personal theme songs. With tales of movie selection rights and heartwarming promises to cherish our conversations, we highlight the joy and warmth that familial relationships bring. It's an episode filled with laughter, love, and the delightful chaos that only family can provide.

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TRIGGER WARNING What would you do for love? Imagine adopting a child and transforming your life through the power of unconditional love. Join us as we share the moving story of Victoria's adoption journey, from overcoming past hardships to embracing newfound happiness. An old voicemail serves as a poignant reminder of this incredible transformation, inspiring listeners with the message that a happily ever after is indeed within reach.

Next, we tackle the challenges of obtaining a functional prosthetic arm for Victoria, specifically the Hero Arm by Open Bionics. We humorously explore family dynamics during Abby's summer visit, filled with laughter and playful pranks that light up our lives. Yet, behind the humor lies a significant purpose: raising awareness about the financial and practical hurdles in acquiring a suitable prosthetic. Through this discussion, we invite our listeners to support Victoria's journey, underscoring the strength of family support in overcoming life's obstacles.

As we embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving, we share heartwarming anecdotes filled with laughter, love, and gratitude. From amusing mishaps like receiving red roses after a clumsy error to the playful camaraderie reminiscent of "Grumpy Old Men," our stories celebrate the resilience and joy found within familial bonds. We highlight the incredible spirit of a young girl who remains a beacon of positivity despite numerous surgeries. As we express our gratitude for family and the hope of more time together, we encourage our listeners to share their own tales of love and resilience.

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